WNYT.com

Kruger leads Hong Kong Open by 1 shot

Updated at: 12/06/2013 6:06 AM
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(AP) HONG KONG - Jbe Kruger of South Africa paid tribute to Nelson Mandela after taking a one-shot lead at the Hong Kong Open on Friday.

"Our country has lost a real-life hero and wearing this (black ribbon) is a real honor for me," said Kruger, who wore black ribbons on his chest and arm while shooting a 4-under 66 in the second round.

"I don’t think our country will ever have another leader like Mandela. He has been sick and in hospital for a long time yet it was sad when I heard this morning of his passing away. Unfortunately I never met him but I know his death will affect everyone, white and black, in my country."

Kruger made seven birdies and three bogeys for a 7-under 133 overall at the Hong Kong Golf Course. He is one shot ahead of Stuart Manley (67), who bogeyed his final hole.

"It wasn’t the finish I wanted. But it’s OK, I’m still in the mix," Manley said. "I started slowly, maybe (I had) too much coffee, but then began to control the ball well."